Top Value Shiraz Tasted 3/14

Oddly herbal in a composty and medicinal king of way, I find this to be unusual but attractive in its complexity and like the other South African Syrah in this tasting this is showing a distinctive character that is very possibly distinctive South African terroir. Or a dollop of Pinotage added to the blend. A touch candied with some vanilla nuance and a bit of tobacco emerging with air, along with black pepper notes that help to highlight the plummy, black currant fruit here. A bit thick on entry, though with pretty good clarity in the mouth, this is a rather solid wine in the mouth, seamless if a bit shapeless. there’s attractive cherry and boysenberry fruit on the palate framed with very subtle vanilla and black pepper notes that lead to a fresh finish that shows good nervous energy and lingering black currant, plum, and gently spicy flavors. Distinctive, easy to drink, but not at all facile. 88pts